Goji berries have been used for centuries for their high levels of antioxidants. An antioxidant is somewhat of a broad term, because there are several types of antioxidants that exist in nature and provide varying benefits. A general benefit is that they help protect your body’s cells from damage, which in turn helps you live a healthier and longer life.

What is a Goji Berry?

Goji berries, also called wolfberries, have been grown in the Himalayan valley for hundreds of years. Traditional Chinese folk medicine uses them to cure a variety of ailments. Goji berries have also long been used in various Asian dishes as an ingredient or a garnish. Goji berry bushes grow to be one to three meters high . Because the berries are very delicate when on the plant, they cannot be picked by hand. Instead they are gently shaken from the vine. Frequently they are set out in the sun to dry, whereupon they become slightly chewy. Besides eating the berries, you can also drink the goji berry juice. It is especially popular in the regions where the berries are grown, and can be combined with tea to make a tonic.

How can Goji Berries and other anti-oxidants help protect your skin?

Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences produced a study recently to which hairless mice consumed Goji berry juice and then were exposed to UV radiation. The results showed that the mice were protected against Solar Simulated UV-induced immunosuppression (Sun Damage). Due to the use of the Goji berry’s antioxidant properties the mice exhibited photoimmune protection from sun damage(1).